Charles Harry Whedbee (1911–1990)

I came across this book at a beach house while vacationing in OBX. We were caught inside due to the rather turbulent storm (actually watched a fair bit of pier break off and get carried about by the waves) and having little else to do, read. What better reading during that time than the legends of the very town we were staying in and the surrounding area?

This book is exceptionally charming. The stories that are contained within it are ones that pretty much epitomize the experience of being an Outer Banker, or at least visiting the Outer Banks. You'll find an abundance of pirates, some Indians, colonialists and porpoises. You'll learn about the wisdom of the Outer Bankers and the foolishness of those inlanders that think they can forget tradition. You''ll learn more than I can possibly express in a short review about the perspective and culture of a place that's slowly changing, having to acclimate to a changing world and the values that come along with it.

I love these books so much. They're time capsules into ways of life and being that are otherwise so difficult to convey. I think it says a lot about the Outer Banks that so many of the stories are still as prevalent as they are today - in particular the way that Nag's Head and Jockey's Ridge got their names - that rely upon the romanticized notion of pirates. Just fascinating stuff.

So, if you're looking for a book that will keep your kids up at night, or you want an amusing look back at a very different perspective and way of life, this is a great book to illuminate the people of that region.… (more)

An excellent collection of tales from the Outer Banks region, filled with the mystery and strangeness that has been present since the first attempt at settling the land (as seen in the included Roanoke tales).

From Roanoke, to Hatteras Jack, to Blackbeard, to Theodosia Burr, and even the origins of "Boozyot," Whedbee shares the stories handed down from the old timers. These are tales to be treasured, especially if you've had any experience in the region.

This particular copy is also signed by the author to my grandparents.… (more)